Bank issues Marley commemorative coins

AP, Aug 24, 2006 3:19 pm PDT
Bob Marley's records long ago went platinum. Now the Bank of Jamaica is releasing commemorative coins in gold and silver with the late reggae superstar's dreadlocked likeness.

The 1,000 coins, produced by the British Royal Mint, are being sold for $100 each, bank spokeswoman Jacqueline Morgan said Wednesday.

"We've received quite a bit of interest already," Morgan said.

Though the coins were intended to mark the 60th anniversary of Marley's birth, which was celebrated in 2005, the bank is just now offering them for sale, said Morgan, who didn't offer a further explanation.

It is the second time the Bank of Jamaica has issued coins bearing Marley's likeness. "The coins to commemorate his 50th birthday have totally sold out," Morgan said.

Born in Jamaica's rural St. Ann parish, Marley rose from the gritty shantytowns of Kingston to global stardom in the 1970s with hits such as "No Woman No Cry" and "I Shot the Sheriff." His lyrics promoting "one love" and social revolution made him an icon in developing countries worldwide.

Marley, who died of cancer in Miami at age 36 in 1981, remains one of Jamaica's most beloved national heroes.

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On the Net:

Bob Marley: http://www.bobmarley.com/

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